The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently released an annual summary of reported laser strike incidents in 2019 showing there were 6,136 reports of people on the ground shining easily-obtained laser pointers at aircraft. According to the FAA, the availability of inexpensive laser devices for sale in stores and online is contributing to the problem, with lasers having stronger power levels giving lawbreakers the ability to hit aircraft at higher altitudes. Many of the reports were green-colored lasers, which are more visible to the human eye than red lasers.
FAA Reports Laser Strike Incidents Increased in 2019
Key Takeaways:
- Laser strikes on aircraft remain a serious and growing safety threat, with 6,136 incidents reported in 2019, largely attributed to the easy availability of inexpensive, powerful laser pointers.
- Pointing lasers at aircraft is a federal offense that poses a significant risk to pilots' safety, including potential eye damage, and is not addressed with warnings but through strict enforcement.
- The FAA and law enforcement agencies pursue severe civil and criminal penalties for laser offenders, which can include fines up to $30,800, federal prison sentences, and revocation of aviation certificates for pilots or mechanics.
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